5th AFF History

Since September 5, 2009

United States 

Fifth Air Force traces its roots to the Philippines when U.S. military aviation made its first presence in the region there in March 1912. Starting with a flight training school near Manila, its presence grew to the establishment of several aero squadrons over the next thirty years. The Philippine Army Air Corps was created by the Philippine National Assembly's National Defense Act of 1935. By 1940, the corps had around 40 aircraft and 100 pilots.

What would become Fifth Air Force was constituted as the Philippine Department Air Force on 16 August 1941. It was activated in the Philippines on 20 September 1941. This was in response to the proposal by Chief of the Army Air Forces, Major General Henry H. Arnold, who in July 1941 proposed sending four heavy bombardment groups (340 aircraft) and two pursuit squadrons (260 aircraft) to the Philippines.

The organization was redesignated Far East Air Force in October 1941. The Philippine Army Air Corps was incorporated as part of the new organization.

 Administrators:

Members: